A devastating stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night resulted in the deaths of at least 18 people, including 11 women and five children. The chaos ensued as thousands of devotees gathered to board trains to Prayagraj for the ongoing Maha Kumbh. Delays in the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani contributed to overcrowding on platforms 12 to 15, triggering a panic rush.

The incident, which occurred around 8 PM, led to immediate emergency response efforts. Authorities deployed additional security personnel, four fire engines, and special trains to manage the unexpected surge of passengers. The injured were swiftly transported to LNJP and Lady Hardinge hospitals, where officials confirmed the casualties. Helpline numbers +919873617028 and 011-23501207 have been issued for affected families.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured that the situation was under control, while President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragedy. The Railways announced compensation of ?10 lakh for the deceased’s families, ?2.5 lakh for those critically injured, and ?1 lakh for minor injuries.

Eyewitness videos captured the harrowing moments of the crowd surge, with people struggling to board overcrowded trains and some collapsing near escalators. The sudden influx of devotees, coupled with limited transport options, led to widespread distress.

Political reactions followed swiftly. Former Delhi CM Atishi criticized the central government for mismanagement, while Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav suggested extending the Maha Kumbh to ease congestion.

With the festival concluding on February 26, authorities remain on high alert to prevent further mishaps, urging passengers to avoid panic and follow safety protocols at railway stations.

A devastating stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night resulted in the deaths of at least 18 people, including 11 women and five children. The chaos ensued as thousands of devotees gathered to board trains to Prayagraj for the ongoing Maha Kumbh. Delays in the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani contributed to overcrowding on platforms 12 to 15, triggering a panic rush.

The incident, which occurred around 8 PM, led to immediate emergency response efforts. Authorities deployed additional security personnel, four fire engines, and special trains to manage the unexpected surge of passengers. The injured were swiftly transported to LNJP and Lady Hardinge hospitals, where officials confirmed the casualties. Helpline numbers +919873617028 and 011-23501207 have been issued for affected families.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured that the situation was under control, while President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragedy. The Railways announced compensation of ?10 lakh for the deceased’s families, ?2.5 lakh for those critically injured, and ?1 lakh for minor injuries.

Eyewitness videos captured the harrowing moments of the crowd surge, with people struggling to board overcrowded trains and some collapsing near escalators. The sudden influx of devotees, coupled with limited transport options, led to widespread distress.

Political reactions followed swiftly. Former Delhi CM Atishi criticized the central government for mismanagement, while Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav suggested extending the Maha Kumbh to ease congestion.

With the festival concluding on February 26, authorities remain on high alert to prevent further mishaps, urging passengers to avoid panic and follow safety protocols at railway stations.